In an age where social media has become a double-edged sword, truth and context often fall victim to sensationalism and political mischief. The recent resurgence of a tweet made by Senator (Dr.) Ajibola Basiru in 2018 which is now being mischievously circulated as a “recent” statement is a classic case of deliberate misinformation and character assassination.
The tweet in question was made during the heat of internal political dynamics in 2018, when Senator Basiru, a loyal party man, expressed support for his party colleague, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji. That context matters. It was a different time, a different political climate, and an honest expression of solidarity for a fellow progressive. Attempting to repurpose it now, years later, and strip it of its historical context is not only dishonest, it is desperate.
Why the desperation? Who is feeling intimidated?
Dr. Ajibola Basiru, known fondly as SRJ across Osun State and Nigeria at large, has risen to become a political force defined by integrity, loyalty, and grassroots connection. As the current National Secretary of the ruling party, his influence transcends regional boundaries, and his leadership has injected a new vibrancy into party organization nationwide.
But it is not just his current position that rattles his detractors, it is the love and trust he commands in his home state. Osun State knows SRJ as a man of the people. A legal luminary, a principled progressive, and above all, a servant-leader whose commitment to the welfare of the people is unwavering.
Sources within the state reveal that well-meaning citizens—traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups, and political stakeholders have been mounting pressure on SRJ to contest the 2026 Osun governorship election. These are not empty endorsements. They are a testament to his proven leadership, accessible personality, and track record of service.
So, again, who is afraid?
It appears that those who cannot match SRJ’s political depth and connection to the grassroots have chosen instead to resurrect an old tweet hoping to stir controversy where there is none. It is a futile attempt to manufacture division where unity prevails. But Osun people are wiser than that. They know who truly has their interest at heart.
Let it be known: Senator Basiru has never hidden his loyalty to the party or his respect for fellow progressives. He speaks his truth with clarity and backs it up with action. What he does not do and never will is engage in petty politics or character denigration.
It would appear that the peddlers of the skewed narrative admitted that words of SRJ is worth more than gold and they will need him to market their funny political machination of zoning already overtaken by events since about seven years ago. This is particularly so when the present occupant of the government house in Osogbo is from the West with demographic advantage over any other aspirants from West Senatorial District!
We must ask ourselves: What kind of politics do we want to promote? One that is rooted in facts, ideas, and progress, or one based on lies, distortion, and fear?
SRJ has nothing to hide. He stands tall on his record, on his principles, and on the love of his people. If that threatens some, perhaps they should focus on building credibility rather than fabricating narratives.
The people of Osun are watching. And they will not be swayed by noise. The truth, as always, will prevail.
Signed,
Olayinka Rahman
Concerned Citizen / Political Analyst / Public Affairs Commentator
thecommentngApril 20, 20252 Mins read
